Roads deserted, banks shut as Buhari visits Imo

Roads in Owerri, the Imo state capital are deserted as residents have stayed indoors ahead of President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to the state.

As early as 6 am, security operatives mounted road blocks and barricaded major roads in the metropolis.

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• Commuting in and out of Imo has been a herculean task, as both intra and inter bus services were virtually impaired.

The measures might not be unconnected with the stay-at-home order issued by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) over the president’s visit.

All markets, banks, commercial centres in the city are shut.

Heads of market associations had, on Wednesday, asked traders to stay at home on Thursday.

Residents, who spoke with our correspondent, expressed anger at the security arrangements put in place for the president’s visit.

Emeka, a resident of Ihiagwa, expressed indignation that he was not allowed to move a kilometre out of his neighbourhood.

The president is expected to commission the first phase of the Naz -Nekede – Ihiagwa road.

Emeka said, “So, how can we welcome the president if we are not allowed to go out from our houses?”

“Security agents, especially soldiers are not friendly at all as they bark and wave guns at people trekking,”

The president is expected to land at the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport any moment from now.